I have chosen to pursue a career in healthcare because I am deeply passionate about improving the lives of others and addressing health disparities in underserved communities. Growing up in Vietnam, I witnessed firsthand the impact that limited access to healthcare can have on individuals and families. This experience ignited a desire within me to make a difference and ensure that everyone has access to the healthcare they need. In Vietnam, there were not many opportunities for women to access education, especially in the healthcare field. However, upon moving to America, I was exposed to a world where education and opportunities were more readily available. This stark contrast highlighted the importance of education and empowerment for women, especially in fields like healthcare where their contributions are invaluable. The project I organized for girls' orphanages in Vietnam was a transformative experience that solidified my commitment to healthcare. Witnessing the impact that education and support can have on these girls' lives reaffirmed my belief that everyone deserves access to quality healthcare. In Vietnam, many underprivileged individuals do not have access to good and affordable healthcare. This disparity is something I am deeply passionate about addressing. As a woman in the field of healthcare, I hope to bring a unique perspective and approach to addressing healthcare challenges. Women have traditionally played a crucial role in caregiving and advocating for health issues, and I believe that my experiences and insights as a woman will allow me to connect with patients on a deeper level and provide more holistic care. I also look up to my mother as a role model of a strong, independent woman who grew up in a poor household in Vietnam. She worked tirelessly to provide for our family and instilled in me the values of hard work and perseverance. Despite not having the opportunity to attend college herself, she worked hard to ensure that I had access to education and opportunities that she did not. I am deeply committed to using my career in public health to better my community and address the health disparities that exist, particularly for underprivileged populations. My experiences organizing activities for girls' orphanages in Vietnam have fueled my passion for ensuring that everyone, regardless of their background, has access to quality healthcare. One way I plan to do this is by advocating for policies that promote health equity and address the social determinants of health. This includes advocating for affordable healthcare options, improving access to nutritious food and safe housing, and addressing environmental factors that impact health. Additionally, I hope to work directly with communities to develop programs and interventions that meet their specific health needs. This could involve partnering with local organizations and healthcare providers to offer health education, screenings, and preventive care services. I also believe in the power of education to improve health outcomes. I plan to use my platform to raise awareness about health issues and empower individuals to take control of their health through education and access to resources. Overall, my goal is to use my career in healthcare to make a meaningful impact in the lives of others, particularly underserved communities, and to advocate for health equity for all. I believe that everyone deserves access to good healthcare, and I am committed to working towards this goal.

1. Born and raised in Vietnam, my journey to America was fueled by a deep-seated aspiration to pursue a career in the medical field and the collective dream of my family for a brighter future. This year, I began my studies as a Public Health major at the University of California, San Diego (UCSD), becoming a first-generation college student and embracing the responsibilities that come with it. My transition from Vietnam to the U.S. was driven by my parents' sacrifices and their belief in the transformative power of education. Soon, they too will move to America, seeking a better life and further solidifying our family's commitment to education and opportunity. As I navigate my academic journey at UCSD, I am not just absorbing lessons in public health; I am also learning to integrate my Vietnamese heritage with my American aspirations. This experience is shaping my understanding of my role in a global context and honoring the sacrifices my family has made to ensure I can chase my dreams. 2. Life as an immigrant and foreign student at UCSD, nestled within the diverse tapestry of San Diego, has been a blend of independence, adaptation, and growth. Arriving here with just my sister, while our parents remain in Vietnam, has underscored the challenges of forging a new path in an unfamiliar environment. This separation has not only tested our resilience but also taught us the true meaning of self-reliance and the importance of building a support network in a new country. Adjusting to life at UCSD and San Diego, without the immediate presence of my family, has been a significant shift. The initial struggle to find a sense of belonging, amidst a sea of new faces and a different educational culture, was daunting. Balancing academic responsibilities with the effort to integrate socially and understand the cultural dynamics of the U.S. required patience and perseverance. However, this journey has also been enriching. It has pushed me to be more open, embracing the diverse community at UCSD and the wider San Diego area. Learning to navigate these new social and academic landscapes has broadened my perspectives, fostering a deeper appreciation for the mosaic of cultures and ideas that define this region. 3. Since coming to the U.S., I've discovered my resilience and adaptability, finding comfort in my Vietnamese roots while embracing new experiences. I've learned to appreciate my family's sacrifices and cultural heritage even more from afar. Living here has exposed me to diverse perspectives, broadening my worldview. This journey has been transformative, teaching me valuable lessons about myself, my home country, and the U.S. 4. Immigrating to the U.S. has instilled in me a sense of independence and resilience that has shaped my approach to challenges and opportunities. It has also broadened my perspective, allowing me to see the world through a more diverse and inclusive lens. In terms of my career choices, this journey has solidified my commitment to pursuing a career in the medical field. Witnessing the disparities in healthcare access and outcomes between different communities has fueled my passion for public health and health equity. I am determined to use my education and experiences to advocate for underserved populations and work towards a more equitable healthcare system. Overall, this journey has taught me the importance of perseverance, empathy, and cultural understanding in both my personal and professional life. It has reinforced my belief in the power of education and opportunity to create positive change, and has inspired me to dedicate my career to serving others and making a difference in the world.